Rega Planar 3 RS Edition

Rega Planar 3 RS Edition with ND5 MM Cartridge

The Rega Planar 3 RS Edition (Rega Special) is constructed using a brand-new aluminium metal skin HPL laminate to create the stiffest plinth at the Planar 3 level we have produced. This stunning dark brushed metallic plinth, edged in high gloss black creates a stunning platform for the iconic Planar 3. The RS Edition includes a custom-matched Neo MK2 PSU with each motor vibration circuit hand-tuned to each individual motor. This low-noise 24v motor drives the subplatter via our Reference EBLT drive belt for ultimate accuracy in speed control. Finally, the legendary handmade RB330 tonearm is mounted and supplied with the all-new award-winning Nd5 moving magnet cartridge.

Rega is known for its innovative use of lightweight, ultra-rigid plinths, a feature developed over many years. By combining a lightweight particulate core with a rigid phenolic resin skin, the company established the foundation for the exceptional performance of its iconic original Planar range.

The latest Planar 3 RS Edition builds upon this approach by incorporating High Pressure Laminate (HPL), a material typically used in higher-end models like the Planar 6, Planar 8, and Planar 10. This HPL enhances rigidity and features a visually striking brushed metal dark aluminium skin with a satin finish. Additionally, the design includes a double brace system positioned strategically between the tonearm mounting and the main hub bearing, forming a structurally sound “stressed beam” assembly for optimal support.

This advanced plinth design minimizes energy absorption and unwanted resonance, which could otherwise distort the audio. Heavier materials are avoided as they can transmit more unwanted energy, such as motor or bearing noise, into the record. Instead, the use of braces and double-thickness phenolic resin in critical areas effectively addresses mass absorption and unwanted energy transmission, ensuring high-fidelity sound reproduction.

Key Features of the Rega Planar 3 RS Edition

• Brushed metal, dark aluminium, HPL laminated plinth
• RB330 Precision tonearm
• Nd5 MM cartridge factory fitted
• Neo turntable PSU MK2 included (speed control + anti-vibration circuit)
• 24 V low noise, low vibration motor, hand-tuned to the custom Neo PSU Mk2
• CNC-machined custom pulley
• Reference EBLT drive belt fitted as standard
• Double brace technology
• 12 mm float glass opti-white polished platter
• Supplied with a smoked dust cover as standard.

Nd5 Moving Magnet Cartridge

Each Nd5 is meticulously hand-made by Rega’s highly skilled technicians. The stylus profile is a perfect elliptical nude diamond. This is a true ellipse produced by an elliptical grinding process using polycrystalline manmade diamond. The design uses brand-new generator geometry with perfect symmetry to achieve an accurate channel balance. The Nd5 also has an optimised pole gap for superior linearity and cross-talk characteristics. This provides a far wider soundstage than the previous models. This new cartridge is created with miniaturised parallel coils, wound in-house using 38-micron wire and just 1275 turns. This produces a low-inductance, low-impedance generator, giving a vastly improved high-frequency response. In keeping with our commitment to sustainability, the Nd range is supplied in 100% recyclable packaging. The Nd5 was recently reviewed by Hi-Fi Choice “it is abundantly clear that Rega has built a bit of a star turn here. The Nd5 is a dramatic improvement on its long-running forebears (Elys2 and Exact) and one of the very best designs available for £300 right now”.

Plinth

Brushed dark aluminium-skinned HPL laminated plinth for improved rigidity.

Motor

24 V low noise low voltage precision motor and PCB assembly, fitted with a custom CNC-machined aluminium pulley.

Neo MK2 PSU

The Neo MK2 PSU is an advanced turntable power supply providing user-controllable fine-speed adjustment, an advanced anti-vibration motor circuit, and the convenience of electronic speed change. The Neo MK2 reduces motor noise and improves speed stability and rotational speed accuracy.

Double brace technology

3 mm phenolic bottom brace and metalised skin phenolic top brace. The Planar 3 RS Editions plinth is further strengthened with the double-brace system. Mounted specifically where the increased rigidity is required (between the tonearm mounting and the main hub bearing) this forms a structurally sound “stressed beam” assembly. This rigid plinth design prevents energy absorption and unwanted resonance, which will add unnatural distortions to the music. Equally, a heavier mass can transfer more unwanted energy, such as motor or bearing noise, directly into the rotating record. The use of braces instead of the complete skin allows for double-thickness phenolic resin in these key areas, directly addressing mass absorption and unwanted energy transmission.

Central bearing

Rega designed a patented brass main hub central bearing, improved fit and construction, reducing stress on the bearing itself.

Tonearm

The RB330 tonearm was designed using the latest 3D CAD & CAM technology and is the culmination of more than 40 years of tonearm design experience. Featuring our latest bearing housing and tonearm tube designed using intelligent redistribution of mass, ensure this arm will exhibit fewer points of possible resonance. Extreme stability, zero play in the bearings, and almost friction-free movement from the new high-precision bearing assemblies guarantee you gather more information from your vinyl than ever before.

FAQs: Rega Planar 3 RS Edition Turntable

1. What is the Rega Planar 3 RS Edition?

The RS (Rega Special) Edition is a premium, upgraded version of the classic Planar 3. It features a high-pressure laminate (HPL) plinth with an aluminium skin, improved rigidity, and factory-installed upgrades for enhanced performance.

2. What makes the RS Edition different from the standard Planar 3?

• Aluminium HPL plinth for better rigidity and lower resonance
• Neo MK2 external power supply with electronic speed control
• Factory-fitted Nd5 cartridge
• Reference EBLT drive belt and tuned motor

It comes fully upgraded, eliminating the need for future add-ons.

3. How is the sound quality?

• Excellent clarity and detail
• Wide soundstage with precise imaging
• Tight, controlled bass with natural tonality

The improved construction minimises vibrations, resulting in cleaner and more accurate playback.

4. Is it easy to set up?

Yes. It is designed as a plug-and-play audiophile turntable, with the cartridge pre-installed and factory calibrated for ease of use.

5. What tonearm and cartridge does it use?

• Tonearm: RB330
• Cartridge: Nd5 moving magnet (factory fitted)

This combination ensures accurate tracking and detailed sound reproduction.

6. Does it offer speed control?

Yes. The Neo MK2 power supply allows electronic speed switching, fine adjustments, and reduced motor vibration for improved pitch accuracy.

7. Who is this turntable best suited for?

• Serious vinyl enthusiasts
• Users upgrading from entry or mid-level turntables
• Buyers seeking high performance without complex setup

8. Is it good value for money?

Yes. It includes several premium upgrades that would cost significantly more if purchased separately, making it a strong value proposition in its category.

Why the Rega Planar 3 RS Edition is a Great Buy

1. High-End Engineering at a Mid-Range Price

It incorporates design elements from higher-end models, delivering near high-end performance at a more accessible price point.

2. Exceptional Build Quality

The double-braced HPL plinth with aluminium reinforcement minimises resonance and enhances overall sound performance.

3. Complete Upgrade Package

Includes a premium cartridge, external power supply, and reference belt—saving both time and additional cost.

4. Outstanding Performance

Known for its musical, dynamic, and engaging sound, it competes with more expensive turntables in its class.

5. Plug-and-Play Convenience

Delivers audiophile-grade performance without requiring complex setup or constant tweaking.

Final Verdict

The Rega Planar 3 RS Edition offers an excellent balance of performance, build quality, and convenience. It is an ideal choice for anyone looking to invest in a high-quality turntable that delivers exceptional sound without requiring continuous upgrades.

Technical Specifications of the Rega Planar 3 RS Edition